An offshoot of La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels, a renowned wine bar in Paris - and now also London - New York’s own branch opened earlier this year with a wine list so extensive, it puts many high-end restaurants to shame.

La Compagnie offers 500-plus wines, over two thirds of which are from France, as well as less than usual vintages from countries like South Africa and Slovenia.

And this is a place in which imbibing the perfect tipple is treated with the utmost seriousness. Behind the bar are two stainless steel and glass enomatic machines that keep 16 open bottles on tap for a week, meaning there is always a rotating selection of high-end wines by the glass, as well as the bottle.

There are small plates to enjoy with your wine, such as beef and tuna tartare, beet salad and tartinettes, pickles and a cheese plate.

Choose a seat at the marble-topped bar, or kick back in one of the low-slung chairs, with comfortable pillows and soak up the cozy, candlelit atmosphere. Those seeking refuge from the ear-splitting volume of many NoLita bars will relish the peacefulness of this space.